If you’re interested in breast augmentation but aren’t sure which questions to ask beforehand, I’ve put together this helpful list of things to think about during your initial consultation with your plastic surgeon. I feel strongly that asking the right questions better prepares you for the procedure and gives you the confidence you need to make your final decision. This is a transformative procedure that can dramatically change the way you (and others) see yourself, which is why it is so important for you to be as informed as possible. For more information on breast augmentation, download our free fact sheet!
For many of my patients, breast implants help them feel sexier, younger, more voluptuous...and more feminine. For others, breast implants correct breast misalignment, breasts that never developed, the absence of breasts after surgery, or some other issue. But for all of them, breast augmentation can be a wonderful turning point in their lives, boosting their self-esteem and enabling them to have a positive body image, sometimes for the first time.
8 important questions to ask your plastic surgeon if you’re considering breast augmentation
1. Are breast implants safe?
Yes, silicone, saline and gummy gel breast implants are safe. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a variety of these implants after years of clinical trials and studies to assure their safety. There is no current evidence to support a link between breast implants and certain tissue diseases. Breast implants, however, like any surgical procedure are not without risks and during your consultation with me, we will review these potential risks in detail.
2. Are you board certified and if so, by which board(s)?
Before undergoing breast augmentation, it is very important to make sure your plastic surgeon is qualified to perform this highly specialized surgery. He/she should be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) as well as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). I am board certified by ABPS and a member of both organizations.
3. What sort of facility do you operate in?
Almost all cosmetic surgery is performed outside of a hospital. However, not all outpatient facilities are created equal. I perform all of my cosmetic surgery in the Surgical Specialty Center of Westchester, a state-of-the-art 4-operating-room, 11-recovery-bed ambulatory surgery center. Our center meets the New York Department of Health standards for Hospitals under Article 28 — what I insist on in my private practice.
4. How experienced are you in performing breast augmentation?
You do not want your plastic surgeon to be “practicing” on you and your breasts. In my opinion, he/she should have performed hundreds of successful breast augmentation procedures, optimally for 10 years or more. Ask to see “before and after” pictures (untouched). I myself have been performing breast augmentation procedures for over 20 years.
5. Which is the best size implant for me?
The size of a woman’s breast implants depends completely on the individual and her body type. The best size for your friend may not be best for you. You may simply want a subtle cup enlargement or you may have in mind something much larger. When I consult with a patient before breast implant surgery, I take into consideration her overall build, chest circumference, shoulder width, height, weight and original breast size. Then we will discuss in detail the amount of cleavage she is hoping to achieve.
6. How long does the surgery take?
Breast augmentation is a fairly standard procedure that takes between 30 and 40 minutes. You will be able to go home the same day, although someone else will need to drive you.
7. How long is the recovery?
After breast augmentation, most women return to work and light activity within one week.
8. How long do implants last?
It is a common misconception that breast implants need to be replaced every ten years. This is untrue because there is no exact "shelf life" when it comes to breast implants, and all breast implants made over the last 20 years come with a lifetime warrantee. I have had patients whose implants have lasted 20+ years trouble-free, but I have also had patients who have experienced implant leakage after only a few years. The main point is to get them checked regularly.
Considering breast augmentation?
If you are thinking about having breast implant surgery and would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact me and I will send you additional information prior to your appointment. I will assess the current appearance of your breasts, your reasons for wanting surgery, and your expectations. Then together, we will decide which options will bring you the results you’re looking for.
Seeing is believing
To see unretouched “before and after” photos of actual patients of mine who have had successful breast augmentation, please visit the Breast Augmentation page in the Photo Gallery section of my website.
If you already have breast implants, please come see me
If it has been a few years (or more) since your breast augmentation surgery, it’s important to get them checked. I highly recommend doing this once a year. Please make an appointment to come in and see me so I can check for any problems.
More information on breast implant surgery
You might also find these pages helpful on my website:
- Breast Procedures
- Breast Augmentation
- Breast Lift
- Breast Reconstruction
- Breast Reduction
- Breast Revision
Board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), Samuel J. Beran, MD is a highly accomplished plastic surgeon with offices in Manhattan, Harrison and Mount Kisco, NY. With more than 20 years’ experience and a thorough command of the most advanced techniques and technologies, Dr. Beran consistently provides his patients with the highest level of plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, face, skin and body. Recently, Dr. Beran was named a “Top Doctor” by RealSelf for his dedication to responding to consumer questions and patient feedback. The “Top Doctor” designation is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf physician community.
